An image of a lighthouse on a sunny day near a tropical beachLately, Miami has become the first choice for Latin American students to pursue their higher education. Part of that reason is because not only is it close in proximity, but Miami also has many schools that offer a high quality education at an affordable tuition rate. Florida houses a diverse selection of accredited colleges and universities that offer a variety of degree programs.

Look at the Numbers

Miami has many benefits to offer an international student. The state of Florida is said to be one of the top selections for international students. According to US News, between 2013-2014, approximately 886,052 international students have come to the United States (US) to earn their college degree. They further reported that 4% of university students in the US are from overseas.

So what exactly does Miami have to offer Latin American students?

Perhaps a greater sense of comfort, maybe? Not to say that an international student wouldn’t be fully comfortable attending school anywhere in the US. There are many who are. However, Latin American students will find much of their culture infused in the South Florida area more than any other place in the US, even California arguably because Miami is known as the Gateway of the Americas and nicknamed the “Capital of Latin America”.

A Fusion of Ethnic Cultures

In South Florida—Miami in particular, you’ll find a mix of ethnic backgrounds like Cuban, Venezuelan, Haitian, Mexican, Asian and more. As a result, Spanish is the second-most spoken language in the Miami area so Latin American students tend to have an easier transition adapting to student life in America.

When Latin American students arrive in Miami, there are a couple of places some tend to go to socialize. One of them is an area located west of the downtown area known as Little Havana. Little Havana was established during the 1960s when approximately 500,000 Cuban-Americans migrated to the area and named it after the capital of the Cuba. As a result, this area often attracts many Latin American students.

Adjusting to College Life in the US

Moving to another country to earn a quality education can certainly have its challenges. The experience of college alone takes an adjustment. So when you factor in trying to blend into an entirely different culture, that’s going to intensify your college experience—in an exhilarating way, of course! No matter where you choose to study in the US, you’re sure to enjoy your college experience but again, Miami is where most Latin American students tend to gravitate to when choosing a college or university in the US.

More About Miami!

Miami offers Latin American students the familiarity of the Latin culture. With Florida reportedly being the 4th most populated state and Miami being ranked as one of the most populated cities in the state of Florida, one can only assume that this would have a positive effect on the economy.

Miami Has a Strong Economy

Miami’s geographical location is strategically placed to house several ports for international trade. Approximately 40% of the US exports go to Latin America from the state of Florida alone. Consequently, with a thriving economy comes more job opportunities. This can be said to be the driving force of acquiring a good college education in the first place.

Living the Dream!

It is not uncommon for international students to get a United States citizenship after they have completed their education. This is usually because of the opportunities that are available to US citizens. You can read about some student success stories at Florida National University (FNU) by clicking here.

Finding a College That’s Truly Diverse

FNU is a regionally accredited university located in Miami with another campus in Hialeah and an online and training center. FNU immerses itself in the diverse culture that Miami has to offer and shows this through the courses offered. FNU has three different levels of English as a Second Language courses and even offers some bilingual programs that students can take.

What Do You Want to Learn?

FNU is fully equipped with the latest technology to help train students in various professions. International students can earn an Associates of Science, Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Science, or a Bachelor of Arts. FNU also offers graduate degree programs in Business Administration, Health Services Administration and Nursing. You can take a look at all of FNU’s degrees, certificate, and diploma programs by clicking here.

Interested in Taking Online Classes?

Another great benefit that FNU offers its students is the option to take online courses. Depending on which degree program a student chooses to enroll in, he or she may be able to earn it 100% online while studying in the US. This gives FNU students the flexibility to earn their college degree while enjoying all that the city of Miami has to offer.

Enjoying Miami Life

Students can go to Little Havana and celebrate Calle Ocho, an annual festival celebrating the Latin culture, or go see a Miami Heat basketball game. Miami is also home of the National Football League’s Miami Dolphins. You’re sure to have a variety of things to do in the city of Miami as there are many art activities to immerse yourself in. Of course, you can do nothing at all and lounge on the sandy shores of Miami Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the United States. Miami is also just hours away from the tropical Florida Keys and even the Bahamas Islands.

Aside from the community activities, FNU also has its own sports teams! As a student, you’re welcome to try out for our Conquistador basketball, volleyball and soccer teams. You can always be a spectator, show your school pride and cheer your college team onto victory!

FNU: Offering So Much More!

There’s so much to experience in Miami and as a FNU student, we’re more than happy to help you discover how to enjoy your college education and make it memorable. Click here to Contact us to inquire about enrollment information.